- Mountainou Camping
The best mountainous camping near San Mateo
95% (228) • 20 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Mateo
Star Gazer Ranch
1. Star Gazer Ranch
97%
(268)
38mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a secluded, one site camp. Our home is 22 miles west of Albuquerque NM. Just 4 miles from i40. Adjacent to Navajo reservation where “Breaking Bad” was filmed. Hundreds of acres of naturalized land. Panoramic view of mountains and unobstructed view of the night sky. Beautiful sunrises, sunsets and starry nights. We would love to share our homestead with you. Come unplug, Safe. Everybody welcome. Most of your questions are answered in this listing. Text me for any additional concerns.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$29
/ night
Flying Horse Retreat
2. Flying Horse Retreat
100%
(13)
38mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
El Morro is rich with history. Home to the ancient Pueblo Indians, what is now the monument was once their settlement and visited by Conquistador's and explorers during early explorations. It's famous Inscription Rock has over 2000 names carved in sandstone, including one from Conquistador Coronado. Geronimo, and Billy the Kid are said to have frequented the area and even lived in nearby Candy Kitchen.
But today, a rich group of homesteader's make up the community. Artisan's, actors, musician's, writers, spiritual healers, organic farmers, and free thinkers inhabit the Valley.
The land here hosts retreats and workshops for those wishing to enrich their nighttime dream life. We provide a place for vision quest and have an emphasis on sound healing. Our SolTec Lounge is perfect for stress relief and can help induce lucid dream experiences.
Sitting near the top of Oso Ridge at approximately 7700', we have one of the most inspiring views in the area. From our firecircle, El Morro Monument, Los Gigantes, and numerous mesas are in complete view.
Learn more about this land:
Flying Horse Retreat is a place for spiritual seekers to find vision and renewal through sound healing and retreat. We offer private retreat, sound healing chair sessions, vision quests, and Summer Camp (coming soon), but we are very excited about opening up the land to campers. It is a unique opportunity to experience normally private areas of this sacred land.
Our remote and quiet 20 acres of heavily forested mountainside includes deep gorges and rocky terrain, while Ponderosa Pine canopies offer shade from the sometimes intense NM sun. Wildlife is plentiful, though sometimes elusive. Deer, Elk, Fox, Bobcat, Lynx, Wild Turkey, Roadrunners and Coyotes are all regularly seen on the land.
El Morro Monument, easily seen from our Firecircle on the opposite end of the Valley, is a world class travel destination. The water tank at the base of it's rock was a relied upon water source during early expeditions. Conquistador Coronado, Lt. Beale and other famed explorers stopped here before traveling further west.
Flying Horse Retreat is across El Morro Valley, near the top of Oso Ridge in the Zuni Mountains, and has a panoramic view of the surrounding mesas. You may want to get a closer view of Los Gigantes - amazing sand sculptures carved by the wind and sacred to ancient tribes. We're just a few miles from the Continental Divide and Pie Town is a couple of hours further south.
Two art galleries, a Feed Store, a Holistic Food Store, and a gift/coffee shop are right across the highway and next door to the Cafe. Come visit our eclectic community of actors, healers, artisans, writers, organic farmers, and unique thinkers. (We are 50 miles from a town where supplies can be purchased, though the nearby Feed Store has a few camp related supplies and their holistic and organic food selections may surprise you.)
You may also want to visit the local Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen. At any one time they are host to 50+ Wolves and Hybrids.
Note: The Google Maps indicator is at the gate. There is an additional 3 mile drive up the mountain to my home.
(Special pricing for longer stays. Campers can add $25 for a dream chair session, regularly $50.)
Projects under way:
Outdoor Solar Shower
B&B Room nearing completion
Note: Sorry, no after dark arrivals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66
3. Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66
100%
(2)
18mi from San Mateo · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Grants KOA, where the stunning beauty and rich history of northwestern New Mexico come together to create an unforgettable camping experience. You can conveniently reserve your stay online for dates up to the night of November 28th, 2024, ensuring you have a spot to unwind after your travel day.
Setting up at this award-winning campground is a breeze, featuring spacious 85-foot-long Pull-Thru RV Sites equipped with up to 50-amp service, providing ample room for slide-outs. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer Tent Sites and cozy Camping Cabins for those seeking a more rustic experience. From March to October, let our friendly staff treat you to delicious Campground Cuisine dinners delivered right to your site, allowing you to relax and enjoy your evening.
Families will love the playground, while your furry friends can frolic at our on-site KampK9, ensuring everyone has a great time. Take a leisurely stroll through the ancient lava beds nearby, immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty. As the day winds down, enjoy complimentary wireless internet and cable TV, perfect for unwinding before your next adventure. Start your mornings right with a free continental breakfast, fueling you for a day of exploration. With so much to see and do,
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Cubero Goat Farm and Gallery
4. Cubero Goat Farm and Gallery
75%
(8)
19mi from San Mateo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the wild Wild West of Northwest New Mexico. The tribes of Navajo, Zuni, Acoma, Apache all surround this wonderful watering hole. Frequented by traders, outlaws, artists and those who appreciate and enjoy nature.
Hawks, Eagles, Owls, Mountain Lions, Bobcats and our other relatives frequent this beautiful piece of heaven as well. Old adobe ruins are located on the property to show old architecture and the civilizations that have been here long before the formation of the United States. The view of the stars are unobstructed and the sunsets and sunrises are breathtaking. Come share this piece of heaven with us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout
5. Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout
35mi from San Mateo · 1 site
** ATTENTION: If you do not have a high clearance 4-wheel drive do not book this site! The Hiker Hideout is an in-holding inside El Malpais National Monument. The Continental Divide Trail goes through the property. The Hiker Hideout was purchased by the Lava Flow Hostel to be a place for hikers to rest, congregate, and socialize. The property once had a cabin and an outhouse, unfortunately a wildfire in June of 2022 burnt the cabin and outhouse. The property now has just primitive campsites. Lava Flow Hostel is working on rebuilding the cabin and water storage. There is an outdoor composting toilet.
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$5
/ night
Little Iron Campground
6. Little Iron Campground
43mi from San Mateo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Little Iron Campground
Little Iron Campground sits on 5 acres of undeveloped land, with a single road running through the property. Vehicles with higher clearance are recommended, and 4x4 may be required depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Multiple campsites are available to choose from among the piñon-juniper trees. The campground is located in Pine Meadow Ranches, behind El Morro National Monument (about 25 minutes away).
Little Iron Campground is located in Game Unit 12.
Campsites are marked and include established fire pits. Be smart, stay safe, and always check local fire advisories before lighting a fire.
Explore the grounds and surrounding areas, or spend the day visiting one of the nearby national monuments. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is what Little Iron Campground is all about.
Things to Do Nearby
• El Morro National Monument
• El Malpais National Monument
• The Ice Caves
• Wolf Spirit Wolf Sanctuary
Nearby Lakes & Reservoirs
• Ramah Lake – 30 min
• Nutria Lakes – 1 hr
Nearby Services
• Closest Gas Station: Lewis Trading Post – 25 min
• Grants: 1 hr
• Gallup: 1 hr 20 min
• Albuquerque: 2.5 hrs
Pets
Campfires
from
$18
/ night
San Isidro Farm
7. San Isidro Farm
47mi from San Mateo · 1 site
Working farm/ranch with 4 mile trail on property and easy access to Zuni Mountain trail system.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$90
/ night
Stargazer Ranch
8. Stargazer Ranch
88%
(12)
57mi from San Mateo · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
A peaceful and serene camping site. We've built a Zen Garden at the top of the hill. This is a very rustic place to camp up in the Central Mountains of New Mexico. The Stargazing view is stunning!
About an hour from Gallup, near the Wolf Sanctuary.
All the Land of Enchantment has to offer in the Spring, Summer and fall! A sacred place where your family can go car camping. I like having my 4x4 Truck...right here at my campsite. For others that don't care, there's lots of tent camping available.
One must see it to believe it it's absolutely sublime. We're building a retreat for camping with groups it's so peaceful and beautiful.
A peaceful Serene setting definitely a getaway spot nestled in 7,300' Mountains.
Pets
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
95% (228) • 20 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near San Mateo
Star Gazer Ranch
1. Star Gazer Ranch
97%
(268)
38mi from San Mateo · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are a secluded, one site camp. Our home is 22 miles west of Albuquerque NM. Just 4 miles from i40. Adjacent to Navajo reservation where “Breaking Bad” was filmed. Hundreds of acres of naturalized land. Panoramic view of mountains and unobstructed view of the night sky. Beautiful sunrises, sunsets and starry nights. We would love to share our homestead with you. Come unplug, Safe. Everybody welcome. Most of your questions are answered in this listing. Text me for any additional concerns.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$29
/ night
Flying Horse Retreat
2. Flying Horse Retreat
100%
(13)
38mi from San Mateo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
El Morro is rich with history. Home to the ancient Pueblo Indians, what is now the monument was once their settlement and visited by Conquistador's and explorers during early explorations. It's famous Inscription Rock has over 2000 names carved in sandstone, including one from Conquistador Coronado. Geronimo, and Billy the Kid are said to have frequented the area and even lived in nearby Candy Kitchen.
But today, a rich group of homesteader's make up the community. Artisan's, actors, musician's, writers, spiritual healers, organic farmers, and free thinkers inhabit the Valley.
The land here hosts retreats and workshops for those wishing to enrich their nighttime dream life. We provide a place for vision quest and have an emphasis on sound healing. Our SolTec Lounge is perfect for stress relief and can help induce lucid dream experiences.
Sitting near the top of Oso Ridge at approximately 7700', we have one of the most inspiring views in the area. From our firecircle, El Morro Monument, Los Gigantes, and numerous mesas are in complete view.
Learn more about this land:
Flying Horse Retreat is a place for spiritual seekers to find vision and renewal through sound healing and retreat. We offer private retreat, sound healing chair sessions, vision quests, and Summer Camp (coming soon), but we are very excited about opening up the land to campers. It is a unique opportunity to experience normally private areas of this sacred land.
Our remote and quiet 20 acres of heavily forested mountainside includes deep gorges and rocky terrain, while Ponderosa Pine canopies offer shade from the sometimes intense NM sun. Wildlife is plentiful, though sometimes elusive. Deer, Elk, Fox, Bobcat, Lynx, Wild Turkey, Roadrunners and Coyotes are all regularly seen on the land.
El Morro Monument, easily seen from our Firecircle on the opposite end of the Valley, is a world class travel destination. The water tank at the base of it's rock was a relied upon water source during early expeditions. Conquistador Coronado, Lt. Beale and other famed explorers stopped here before traveling further west.
Flying Horse Retreat is across El Morro Valley, near the top of Oso Ridge in the Zuni Mountains, and has a panoramic view of the surrounding mesas. You may want to get a closer view of Los Gigantes - amazing sand sculptures carved by the wind and sacred to ancient tribes. We're just a few miles from the Continental Divide and Pie Town is a couple of hours further south.
Two art galleries, a Feed Store, a Holistic Food Store, and a gift/coffee shop are right across the highway and next door to the Cafe. Come visit our eclectic community of actors, healers, artisans, writers, organic farmers, and unique thinkers. (We are 50 miles from a town where supplies can be purchased, though the nearby Feed Store has a few camp related supplies and their holistic and organic food selections may surprise you.)
You may also want to visit the local Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary in Candy Kitchen. At any one time they are host to 50+ Wolves and Hybrids.
Note: The Google Maps indicator is at the gate. There is an additional 3 mile drive up the mountain to my home.
(Special pricing for longer stays. Campers can add $25 for a dream chair session, regularly $50.)
Projects under way:
Outdoor Solar Shower
B&B Room nearing completion
Note: Sorry, no after dark arrivals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$20
/ night
Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66
3. Grants KOA- On Historic Route 66
100%
(2)
18mi from San Mateo · 50 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Grants KOA, where the stunning beauty and rich history of northwestern New Mexico come together to create an unforgettable camping experience. You can conveniently reserve your stay online for dates up to the night of November 28th, 2024, ensuring you have a spot to unwind after your travel day.
Setting up at this award-winning campground is a breeze, featuring spacious 85-foot-long Pull-Thru RV Sites equipped with up to 50-amp service, providing ample room for slide-outs. In addition to RV accommodations, we offer Tent Sites and cozy Camping Cabins for those seeking a more rustic experience. From March to October, let our friendly staff treat you to delicious Campground Cuisine dinners delivered right to your site, allowing you to relax and enjoy your evening.
Families will love the playground, while your furry friends can frolic at our on-site KampK9, ensuring everyone has a great time. Take a leisurely stroll through the ancient lava beds nearby, immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty. As the day winds down, enjoy complimentary wireless internet and cable TV, perfect for unwinding before your next adventure. Start your mornings right with a free continental breakfast, fueling you for a day of exploration. With so much to see and do,
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Cubero Goat Farm and Gallery
4. Cubero Goat Farm and Gallery
75%
(8)
19mi from San Mateo · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
Located in the wild Wild West of Northwest New Mexico. The tribes of Navajo, Zuni, Acoma, Apache all surround this wonderful watering hole. Frequented by traders, outlaws, artists and those who appreciate and enjoy nature.
Hawks, Eagles, Owls, Mountain Lions, Bobcats and our other relatives frequent this beautiful piece of heaven as well. Old adobe ruins are located on the property to show old architecture and the civilizations that have been here long before the formation of the United States. The view of the stars are unobstructed and the sunsets and sunrises are breathtaking. Come share this piece of heaven with us.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout
5. Chain of Craters Hiker Hideout
35mi from San Mateo · 1 site
** ATTENTION: If you do not have a high clearance 4-wheel drive do not book this site! The Hiker Hideout is an in-holding inside El Malpais National Monument. The Continental Divide Trail goes through the property. The Hiker Hideout was purchased by the Lava Flow Hostel to be a place for hikers to rest, congregate, and socialize. The property once had a cabin and an outhouse, unfortunately a wildfire in June of 2022 burnt the cabin and outhouse. The property now has just primitive campsites. Lava Flow Hostel is working on rebuilding the cabin and water storage. There is an outdoor composting toilet.
Toilets
Picnic table
from
$5
/ night
Little Iron Campground
6. Little Iron Campground
43mi from San Mateo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Little Iron Campground
Little Iron Campground sits on 5 acres of undeveloped land, with a single road running through the property. Vehicles with higher clearance are recommended, and 4x4 may be required depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Multiple campsites are available to choose from among the piñon-juniper trees. The campground is located in Pine Meadow Ranches, behind El Morro National Monument (about 25 minutes away).
Little Iron Campground is located in Game Unit 12.
Campsites are marked and include established fire pits. Be smart, stay safe, and always check local fire advisories before lighting a fire.
Explore the grounds and surrounding areas, or spend the day visiting one of the nearby national monuments. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is what Little Iron Campground is all about.
Things to Do Nearby
• El Morro National Monument
• El Malpais National Monument
• The Ice Caves
• Wolf Spirit Wolf Sanctuary
Nearby Lakes & Reservoirs
• Ramah Lake – 30 min
• Nutria Lakes – 1 hr
Nearby Services
• Closest Gas Station: Lewis Trading Post – 25 min
• Grants: 1 hr
• Gallup: 1 hr 20 min
• Albuquerque: 2.5 hrs
Pets
Campfires
from
$18
/ night
San Isidro Farm
7. San Isidro Farm
47mi from San Mateo · 1 site
Working farm/ranch with 4 mile trail on property and easy access to Zuni Mountain trail system.
Toilets
Showers
Potable water
from
$90
/ night
Stargazer Ranch
8. Stargazer Ranch
88%
(12)
57mi from San Mateo · 41 sites · Tents, RVs
A peaceful and serene camping site. We've built a Zen Garden at the top of the hill. This is a very rustic place to camp up in the Central Mountains of New Mexico. The Stargazing view is stunning!
About an hour from Gallup, near the Wolf Sanctuary.
All the Land of Enchantment has to offer in the Spring, Summer and fall! A sacred place where your family can go car camping. I like having my 4x4 Truck...right here at my campsite. For others that don't care, there's lots of tent camping available.
One must see it to believe it it's absolutely sublime. We're building a retreat for camping with groups it's so peaceful and beautiful.
A peaceful Serene setting definitely a getaway spot nestled in 7,300' Mountains.
Pets
Campfires
from
$24
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
D
Dallas
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Absolutely amazing! Stunning scenery, hospitality, and accommodations.
Owners were wonderful! We were coming late and they helped us find our location via text and directions. Offered to take care of some garbage so we didn’t have to drive with it. They also have the sweetest little dog ever! Came up said hi and went back to what he was doing super interesting.
The site itself was gorgeous. We were able to star gaze and point out consolations very easily.
Overall a wonderful stay. Be prepared! It gets cold at night and hot during the summer.
Thank you! Appreciate you!
See more
N
Nadja
November 2025
Tent
Great facility! Used a basic tent camping spot which is right behind the main office. Bathrooms and laundry were just a step away. We only stayed one night so this was a great plus for us. They had an evening dinner menu, which we didn’t partake in but awesome to have after a long travel day and free pancake breakfast. Also great general store with all kinds of things you might need.
See more
Amanda
October 2025
22 ft campervan
With pets
Great location, easy back in sites, super clean campground.
See more
J
Jennifer
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Fantastic spot close to I-40 just west of Albuquerque. Easy to find (even in the dark!) thanks to the very detailed instructions.
Would 100% stay again. ✨
See morer
romeo
September 2025
16 ft car
Second time camping here and it was great. Very quiet and relaxed. Hosts were very friendly. Definitely a good place to spend the night or maybe even a few days just outside Albuquerque. This has been a good spot for us to spend the night on our way up to Utah on 2 separate trips.
See more
L
Lea
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful 360 views, sunset and sunrise were amazing.
See more
C
Chris
August 2025
11 ft campervan
With pets
Loved camping here! The stars were incredible, the sand felt soft to my NH feet, and the owners were super kind. 10/10 would stay here again.
See more
Benjamin
June 2025
Tent
Host was nice and the site was secluded and felt very private. I had a very pleasant stay.
See moreM
Matt
June 2025
Tent
With kids
Amazing. Super quaint remote location. The hosts were helpful but not at all up in our business even though this camping spot is situated within 50 yards of the house. Beautiful view of the surrounding mountains and we had the benefit of a super clear night where we could see the an epic number of stars.
The little pavilion with a picnic table and a grill was super helpful, and a really nice touch. It had recently rained so we were able to have a bonfire and our host even provided us wood. Overall we really enjoyed our stay.
See moreB
Bryce
May 2025
21 ft campervan
I loved that we were the only ones there and the views were great! Not far off i40, so it was a great pit stop on our way from Utah. Would recommend!
See moreJ
Julia
May 2025
Tent
This was a great spot. We were driving through and this was perfect for an evening amongst the stars!
See more
C
Catherine
May 2025
17 ft campervan
Jennie's place is the real desert feel! The campsite is close to the house but you can find privacy and feel in the middle of nowhere. No star gazing for us as it was raining, bit it did not spoil the feeling!
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Pat
April 2025
20 ft Class B
Lovely, peaceful site in which to decompress and rejuvenate.
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Desirae
April 2025
18 ft campervan
With pets
Fantastic spot!!!!! Beautiful and peaceful, we absolutely loved it. Hosts were so communicative and kind. The directions were great! Definitely would stay again. Thank you for having us.
See moreV
Valerie
April 2025
Tent
Great desert campsite! It’s conveniently close to I-40 if you’re traveling in either direction, but still far enough out that you aren’t bothered by any highway noise. Beautiful sunsets and night sky. The hosts were very welcoming, and so was their pup! Recommend for self-contained campers.
See moreB
Bradford
April 2025
23 ft campervan
With pets
Needed a quiet place to catch up on work during a road trip and this place was perfect for this!
See more
K
Karen
March 2025
20 ft campervan
With pets
I had a wonderful stay at Jeanie and her husband’s place! The atmosphere was incredibly peaceful and quiet, making it the perfect retreat. I was there to teach my shy dog the joys of camping, and the setting was ideal for our little adventure.
Jeanie warmly greeted me upon arrival, which made me feel right at home. I loved having the entire space to myself, allowing for a truly private experience. The weather was absolutely perfect, and the sky was a breathtaking sight, adding to the overall beauty of the location.
I highly recommend this site to anyone seeking an easy-to-reach, secluded camping experience. It’s a hidden gem that offers tranquility and the chance to connect with nature. I can’t wait to return!
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R
Ricky
January 2025
34 ft Class A
Jeanie and her husband were awesome hosts and their space is perfect for astronomy. I took my RV and 11" telescope for a night of skywatching and it was perfect. Very dark and quiet at night. Thanks Jeanie !
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John
January 2025
27 ft pop-up camper
With kids
We had an excellent stay. The hosts were friendly and welcoming, but left us plenty of privacy. The bbq, campfire, and starry night were the best.
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Tracy
December 2024
27 ft Class B
Great directions! Very private and quiet out under the stars! I would definitely book again here!
See more
